What is the holding strength percentage of a bowline or clove hitch knot?

The holding strength percentage of a bowline knot is often cited to be around 60%. This means that when a bowline is used, it can retain about 60% of the rope's original strength. The bowline is popular in various applications due to its ability to form a secure loop at the end of a rope that does not slip and is easy to untie even after being subjected to heavy loads.

Understanding the bowline's reliability at holding strength is crucial for safety, particularly in situations like climbing, sailing, and rescue operations where a secure knot is necessary to prevent accidents. Its design allows it to maintain strength while also being versatile for numerous uses, making it a preferred choice among those who need dependable knot integrity.

The holding strength percentage is affected by numerous factors, including the type of rope, the conditions in which it is used, and how the knot is tied. However, in general practice within various fields, the 60% retention rate is a widely accepted standard, which is why this answer is considered correct.